Ep 7. Rocking Chairs, Banjos, Fishing Hoop Nets

In Handcrafted America season 2 episode 7, host Jill Wagner travels to Tennessee to explore traditional Appalachian crafts. The episode kicks off with a visit to the workshop of master rocking chair maker Hal Taylor. Hal has been handcrafting rocking chairs for over 20 years, using a unique process that involves shaping each piece of wood to fit the curves of the human body. Jill gets a hands-on lesson in chairmaking from Hal before trying out one of his famous chairs for herself.

Next, Jill heads to the studio of luthier Rob Bishline, who specializes in building banjos. Rob’s banjos are highly regarded in the bluegrass community for their superior sound and craftsmanship. Jill gets to see the intricate process of crafting a banjo, from selecting the perfect piece of wood to shaping the neck and adding the resonator. Afterward, she joins Rob and his band for a jam session that showcases the beautiful sound of one of his banjos.

The final stop of the episode is at the workshop of craftsman Ray Long, who creates handmade hoop nets for fishing. Ray uses techniques that have been passed down through generations of his family to create nets that are both beautiful and functional. Jill learns how to weave a fishing net from scratch, and then takes it out on the water for a test run. Along the way, she meets local fishermen and learns about the importance of preserving traditional fishing methods.

Throughout the episode, Jill explores the history and culture behind each craft, and highlights the passion that each craftsman brings to their work. With stunning visuals and engaging storytelling, Handcrafted America season 2 episode 7 is a celebration of the beauty and artistry of handmade goods.